Self-belief & Conviction: Lessons from Masterclass with Secretary of State for Health & Social Care, Rt Hon Matt Hancock MP

Since its 1948 launch, the NHS has evolved into one of the most efficient and egalitarian services. Within England it caters to a population of approximately 55m as well as employing more than 1.3m. It is therefore understandable why the service remains of paramount importance affecting all. As such, meeting the MP whose greatest achievement thus far is being responsible for the launch of the “NHS 10 Year Plan” which includes measures such as better access to mental health services seemed more than fitting.

Within the grand offices of KPMG, it was a pleasure to meet with the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Rt Hon Matt Hancock MP. We discussed the “moment of injustice” which led him to enter politics, the impact technology has on the NHS and most importantly the benefits of being an optimist – even through troubling times.

We were able to question the Secretary of State about the challenges he has faced being one of the senior members of the Conservative party and how he overcomes this in our current political climate – to which we received great insight into his position.

The focus of the masterclass was the power of self belief and conviction. It cemented my belief that in order to make an impact, you must have something that fuels you to make a change. This differs for each person, yet, it is these factors which will keep you motivated to achieve the end goal. We then heard about the message which fuelled his own conviction: if we consider objective facts, the world is getting better but we must not get complacent; instead we must continue to use any outstanding frustrations to go further. Such a statement I believe described both the session and Rt Hon Matt Hancock incredibly.

He imparted three key pieces of advice which I shall share with the belief it will similarly ignite you to achieve your goals irrespective of circumstance as it did for me:

• The biggest mistake you can do is say no to an opportunity: If in doubt, do it anyway as you never know where that may lead.

• Any obstacles faced are not necessarily a hindrance to your success: it’s all about perspective as it may well be a help.

• Time is your biggest asset: but you must choose to spend it wisely.

The Secretary of State remained engaged throughout the masterclass and spoke candidly about the trials and tribulations faced throughout both his personal and political journey.

In essence this session surpassed all expectations and I will be sure to incorporate these messages throughout my own journey – wherever that may lead.

Testimonials

…I’ve always been conscious of the importance of the work of the Patchwork Foundation in getting young people, particularly from underrepresented communities, involved in the political process honing their skills, improving their self-confidence, integrating them into the democratic process.

John Bercow MP

Speaker of the House of Commons and Patron

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